Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (ORELA) Practice Exam

Which type of listening is most closely aligned with active analysis?

1. Aesthetic listening

2. Discriminative listening

3. Critical listening

4. Efferent listening

The correct answer is: Critical listening

The concept of critical listening is deeply connected to active analysis as it involves evaluating and interpreting information in a discerning manner. When engaging in critical listening, an individual actively processes what they hear, questioning the arguments presented, assessing the credibility of the sources, and determining the logical connections between ideas. This type of listening goes beyond simply understanding the message; it requires a thoughtful evaluation of the content, which aligns closely with the skills necessary for active analysis. Critical listening is particularly crucial in contexts where decision-making or judgment is involved, as it helps listeners form informed opinions based on evidence and reasoned arguments. It requires not just comprehension but also the ability to analyze the underlying premises and implications of the speaker's message, making it essential for learners and professionals alike. In contrast, other types of listening such as aesthetic listening focus on enjoying and appreciating the artistic elements rather than evaluating content, while discriminative listening emphasizes distinguishing between different sounds and audio cues rather than engaging with the message critically. Efferent listening primarily aims to extract information for practical use rather than assessing the validity or quality of the content.